When investing in a new roof, understanding the warranty is just as important as choosing the right materials. Many homeowners assume their composition (asphalt shingle) roof is fully covered for decades, only to find out that their standard roofing warranty comes with conditions, exclusions, and limitations that could leave them without coverage when they need it most.
This guide explains how composition roof warranties work, common pitfalls, and how they compare to metal roofing warranties.
How Long Does a Composition Roof Warranty Last?
Most composition shingle manufacturers provide a roofing material warranty that typically lasts 25 years to 30 years for standard shingles. Some premium asphalt shingles offer a lifetime warranty, which can be misleading because it often applies only to manufacturing defects and may be prorated over time (meaning coverage decreases as the roof ages).
However, the roofing installation process plays a crucial role in warranty validity. A roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty is separate from a manufacturer’s warranty and covers labor errors. If your roof fails due to improper installation rather than a material defect, a workmanship warranty (for example) is what you’ll need.
What Does a Composition Roof Warranty Cover?
A standard roofing warranty generally only covers defects in the shingles themselves, not issues caused by poor installation, weather damage, or lack of maintenance. Homeowners are often surprised to learn that their warranty may not cover the cost of labor for repairs or replacements. Many warranties also have exclusions, including:
- Improper installation: If the roofing contractor’s workmanship does not meet manufacturer specifications, the warranty can be voided.
- Inadequate ventilation: Poor attic ventilation can cause shingles to overheat and age prematurely, leading to denied claims.
- Layering new shingles over old ones: A roof overlay can void most manufacturer warranties.
- High-pressure washing or harsh cleaning methods: These can strip protective granules from shingles, making them more vulnerable to damage.
- Using mixed roofing components: Some manufacturers require an entire roofing system (underlayment, ridge caps, etc.) from the same brand for warranty validity (Rare Manufacturing).
Additionally, some warranties require homeowners to perform periodic maintenance to remain valid. This includes clearing debris from the roof, inspecting for signs of wear, and addressing minor damage before it escalates. Failure to complete these routine maintenance tasks could lead to warranty claims being denied.
Another common issue is prorated coverage. While some warranties advertise coverage for 30 years or more, the amount of coverage often decreases over time. For instance, if a defect occurs within the first 10 years, a homeowner might receive full coverage for replacement shingles. However, if the defect arises after 15 or 20 years, the warranty may only provide partial reimbursement, leaving homeowners to cover the rest of the expenses out of pocket.
Finally, warranties typically exclude damage from extreme weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or hail beyond a certain size. Homeowners should check their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate protection for storm-related damage, as manufacturer warranties generally do not cover these incidents.
Transferability: Can a Composition Roof Warranty Be Transferred to a New Homeowner?
Many homeowners assume their warranty remains intact when they sell your home, but that’s not always the case. Most asphalt shingle manufacturers allow the warranty to be transferred to a new homeowner once. However, there are often strict conditions, such as notifying the manufacturer within a set time frame (e.g., 60 days after the sale) and sometimes paying a transfer fee.
If a warranty is not properly transferred, it becomes void, leaving the new homeowner without protection. By contrast, some metal roofing warranties allow multiple transfers within a specific period, making them more valuable when selling a home (Classic Metal Roofing).
How Composition Roof Warranties Compare to Metal Roof Warranties
Metal roofs typically come with stronger warranties due to their durability. A high-quality metal roof can last 40 to 50 years or longer, with warranties often featuring:
- Lifetime coverage (for the original owner)
- Non-prorated protection (full coverage even as the roof ages)
- Paint finish and corrosion warranties (against fading, chalking, or rust)
- Multiple transfers (allowing the warranty to be passed along to future homeowners)
Metal roof warranties are designed for long-term peace of mind, while composition shingle warranties often provide limited and declining coverage over time (AL-CO Metals).
How to Protect Your Roof Warranty
To maximize your warranty coverage and avoid unexpected costs, homeowners should:
- Hire a certified roofing contractor – Ensure your contractor follows manufacturer installation guidelines to avoid voiding the warranty.
- Schedule regular maintenance – Keeping gutters clean and removing debris prevents damage that could void coverage.
- Confirm proper attic ventilation – Improper ventilation can lead to premature aging and void manufacturer warranties.
- Use approved materials – Some warranties require using the manufacturer’s full roofing system.
- Register and track warranty paperwork – Failing to properly register the warranty or meet transfer deadlines can lead to loss of coverage.
FAQs
What is the difference between a manufacturer’s warranty and a contractor’s workmanship warranty?
A roofing material warranty covers defects in the shingles, while a workmanship warranty cover protects against installation errors. Manufacturer warranties do not cover labor, so if a problem is due to improper installation, only a roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty would apply.
Does a lifetime warranty mean my roof is covered forever?
Not necessarily. Lifetime coverage typically applies only to defects in the shingles, not general wear and tear. Many “lifetime” warranties are prorated, meaning their value decreases over time.
Can a warranty be voided if I don’t maintain my roof?
Yes. Failing to protect your roof through regular maintenance (such as cleaning gutters and inspecting for damage) can void the warranty.
If my roof fails due to wind or hail, is that covered?
No. Most standard roofing warranties do not cover storm damage. These issues fall under homeowner’s insurance, not a manufacturer warranty.
Can I transfer my composition roof warranty if I sell my home?
It depends. Most composition warranties can be transferred to a new homeowner once, but it must be done within a set timeframe, often with a fee.
Get a Roof Warranty That Works for You
If you want a roofing project with a strong warranty that truly lasts, consider upgrading to a metal roof. Mountaintop Metal Roofing offers lifetime warranty protection, ensuring that you’ll never have to worry about a roof replacement again. Contact us today for a free quote and find out how a metal roof can provide peace of mind for decades to come.